
What is Breast Reduction Surgery?
Breast reduction surgery is a surgical procedure for women who are uncomfortable with excessively large and saggy breasts. The aim of this surgery is to reduce the size of the breasts, correct their shape and symmetry, remove excess skin and reshape the breast tissue. Breast reduction is usually performed to provide physical comfort and address aesthetic concerns.
Breast reduction also provides functional benefits such as relieving pain in the back, neck and shoulders, correcting posture problems and facilitating physical activity.
Can I Have Breast Reduction Surgery?
Ideal candidates for breast reduction surgery are:
- Physical Discomforts: Excessively large breasts can cause pain in the back, neck and shoulders. Women who complain of such pain are suitable candidates for breast reduction surgery.
- Aesthetic Concerns: People who are uncomfortable with large, sagging or asymmetrical breasts may consider this surgery for aesthetic purposes.
- Health Status: Generally, women who are in good general health, do not smoke and do not have weight problems are more suitable for surgery. Health status will be evaluated with preoperative examinations and tests and appropriate steps will be taken to minimize the risk.
- Age: Generally, this surgery is recommended for individuals who are 18 years of age or older and have completed breast development. However, surgery is not recommended for young individuals whose breasts are still developing.
Are There Different Surgery Techniques? Where will my scars be?
Yes, there are different surgical techniques and the most appropriate technique is chosen according to the needs of each individual. The most common techniques are as follows:
- Invert T (Inverted T Technique): An incision is made starting under the breast and around the areola, then going down vertically. This technique is frequently used in large volume and saggy breasts and provides effective results. The scar is usually in and around the lower part of the breast.
- Lollipop (Confectionery) Method: In this technique, an incision is made around the nipple and in the inframammary fold. It leaves less scarring than the Inverted T, but may not be sufficient for very large reduction requirements.
- Benign Method (Half Moon): An incision is made only around the areola. This method is suitable for less sagging and small breasts. It provides good results but may not be effective for very large reductions.
The position of the scars depends on the technique chosen. In most cases, scars are hidden in the natural folds under the breast and become less prominent over time. For those who are concerned about any scarring, surgeons take care to make the smallest incisions possible.
What to Expect During the Recovery Period?
The healing process may vary for each individual, but it usually includes the following steps:
- First Days: The first few days may include mild pain, swelling and bruising. The pain can usually be controlled with painkillers prescribed by the doctor.
- Use of Special Bra: In the postoperative period, special bras or bandages recommended by the surgeon should be used. This allows the breasts to heal in the correct position.
- Physical Activity: It is recommended to avoid heavy exercises and excessive movements of the arms for the first 4-6 weeks. However, light activities such as walking can usually be done.
- Scars and Swelling: The first few weeks after surgery, there may be swelling and scars. However, over time, healing takes place and the scars become less prominent.
- Control Appointments: The surgeon makes check-up appointments at regular intervals to follow the healing process. During this process, it will be evaluated whether there are any complications.
The healing process usually progresses significantly within 6 weeks, but the final results are usually clear within 3-6 months.
Is Breast Reduction Surgery Risk Free?
As with any surgical procedure, breast reduction surgery carries some risks. These include
- Infection: There may be a risk of infection after surgery, but this risk is minimized with proper care and hygiene.
- Bleeding: Bleeding may occur rarely, but can usually be controlled.
- Scar Formation: Scars may occur in breast reduction surgeries. However, the surgeon carefully makes incisions to minimize scarring.
- Sensory Changes: There may be sensory changes in the nipple or breast. This may be temporary or sometimes permanent.
- Changes in the nipple: After surgery, there may be changes in the position or shape of the nipple.
- Asymmetry: It can sometimes happen that both breasts are not exactly equal, but this is usually minimal and can be corrected.